How to Watch ESPN3 Live Stream Online without Cable

While you may want to make the classic Dodgeball joke referring to the Ocho, ESPN3 is not just the bottom on a list of too many sports networks. ESPN3, like its parent network, is a destination channel for many of the most popular sports events for both professional and college teams. The ESPN3 live stream has become invaluable for a lot of reasons.

For many fans, the biggest draw to ESPN3 is their partnership with ABC. The network airs many of the games that ABC will air throughout the year. And while sports has always been difficult to replicate while eliminating cable, we’re here to tell you that you don’t have to have that fear anymore.

Here are some ideas to watch ESPN3 online without cable.

Stream ESPN3 Live with Sling TV

The Sling TV subscription streaming service is owned by Dish Network and has become a top choice for people looking to replace expensive cable and watch ESPN3 without cable. ESPN3 is part of their basic Orange package along with tons of other sports content, including ESPN and ESPN2. Since sports are often the most difficult thing to replace when eliminating pay TV options, Sling TV is a great option for sports streaming—see our review here.

At one time, ESPN3 was only available to users who logged into the WatchESPN app online with their pay TV credentials. But Sling TV has transitioned the network into their regular line-up, making it easier to watch ESPN3 without cable. Sling TV is also a great value. The basic Orange package starts at $20 per month, and there is no contract. So you can pay month-to-month and cancel at any time.

Sling TV is one of the most accessible options as it works with many of the most popular streaming players on the market. You can watch ESPN3 online using your computer or smartphone. Sling TV also works with players like Chromecast, Amazon Fire TV, Apple TV, Roku, and Xbox One. Check out their website for deals on some of these products and kick start your cable-free life!

There is so much more to Sling TV than just the ESPN3 live stream. Along with the basic package, you can also add on the Sports Extra for just $5 per month. It will add some extra programming like:

Use DIRECTV NOW to Watch ESPN3 Online

DIRECTV NOW is another great streaming service brought to you by AT&T. With DIRECTV NOW, you don’t need a dish, box, or even a contract to get live television.

Though you can watch many sports programs with DIRECTV NOW, unfortunately, you need a cable login to access ESPN3. However, the rest of the ESPN family is included in some of DTVN’s channel bundles, starting at the rate of $35 per month. For the base package, you will receive over 60 channels, plus some limited on-demand options.

Another perk is the fact that DTVN’s grid guide is a lot like the cable navigation you are already used to, so it should be no problem to adjust. Also, this service is a cinch to get started. All you have to do is plug in your streaming player or download the app, and you are good to go!

You can get your shows on most streaming and mobile devices, including your laptop. Don’t fret about mobile restrictions because there aren’t any at this time. (Here’s a bonus: If you use AT&T for your cell phone provider, you can watch on the DIRECTV NOW app, and it will not count against your data usage.)

Watch ESPN3 Streaming with PlayStation Vue

Similar to the situation with DTVN, PlayStation Vue is a great streaming service with lots of options, but in order to watch ESPN3 streaming, you will need a cable login. Though that might be a bummer, there are still many reasons to look into using PS Vue as a cable alternative. Our PS Vue review will hopefully give you a nice overview of the service, but here is a rundown of some notable specs as well:

Base package starts at $39.99 per month and includes a big variety of channels

Just remember that you cannot watch ESPN3 without cable using Vue unless you have a cable login to use.

Where Else Can You Watch ESPN3 Without Cable?

As of right now, there are no other streaming services on the market that allow you to watch the ESPN3 without cable. ESPN does also offer a limited set of ISPs access to ESPN3 online. If your internet service provider participates, you can watch through the WatchESPN app or with your Xbox Live Gold membership. This is not a complete solution, but it can be one more option for fans.

There is everything we know about how to watch ESPN3 without cable legally. If you have more questions, let us know.

Laura M. LaVoie resides in a 120 square foot house in the mountains of Western North Carolina. There she has a solid internet connection and access to some of the best craft beer in the country. Email her at lauralavoie@streamingobserver.com.Disclosure: Streaming Observer is supported by readers. Articles may contain referral links. For more information, see the disclosure at the bottom of the page.